DNA evidence identifies Uxbridge Road burglar

A SMASH-and-grab burglar who was caught after DNA evidence identified him was jailed for 18 months.

Rakesh Lal, 38, broke into five houses near his home in Uxbridge Road, Hayes, over a three-week period in February and March.

He would break back windows and force entry, making away with cash, jewellery and electronics worth thousands of pounds.

Following forensic examinations of the scene, Lal's DNA was matched to that found at one of the scenes, and he was arrested on March 9.

He admitted to the string of burglaries and an attempted theft and was sentenced to 18 months in jail at Harrow Crown Court last Wednesday (June 29). Two other burglary charges will remain on file.

Detective Constable Russell Jones, Metropolitan Police Service, Hillingdon borough, said: "Burglaries have an untold impact on their victims. It is a crime we take extremely seriously. We use all of our expertise to ensure every avenue is explored and offenders are brought to justice.

"In this case, Lal was identified through his DNA at the scene and he is now behind bars, where he will be unable to commit further burglaries."